To especially encourage the mamma's! :-) But also for any gal, big sister, etc., busy in her home and serving her family, these are great reminders and encouragements from one of my favorite authors, Lisa Jacobson. :-)
~Breanna
A high calling, really.
A high calling that requires a woman to stoop low.
To scoop up babies, to pick up toys and to clean up messes.
To wipe runny noses and patch up scratched knees.
It’s known as Motherhood and there are times when it doesn’t feel like all that grand or glorious of a calling.
And there are times when it does.
Like when the little ones snuggle into my arms, or the older ones look to me for answers. When I’m needed to comfort their hearts or speak truth into their young lives.
Then it’s nearly breath-taking.
All this because God has made me their mother.
He has put these children – and these challenges – in my life as part of what He is doing in this world.
Rather amazing.
So when I consider the wonderful privilege of motherhood, I feel blessed beyond words. And I know you do too.
But when I don’t stop to consider?
That’s when I can feel overwhelmed by its dailyness and the seemingly smallness.
Then I experience frustration. Defeat and discouragement.
On those days it feels like we’re going nowhere.
I have to stop and remember I’m a woman on a mission.
And as a mission-minded woman I want to be prepared for the important work that’s before me.It’s not enough to merely muddle-through motherhood, I want to embrace it and make the most of it.
As do you.
Embracing the Mission of Motherhood
Scripture-Filled.
When a mother is pouring out all day, she needs to be filled up too. Spending time in His Word is essential. If hours of uninterrupted time aren’t available (right!), try posting Bible verses throughout the house – in the kitchen, laundry room, bathroom and other popular places – to memorize and meditate on throughout the day.Sift Through Priorities.
One of the challenges of motherhood? EVERYTHING is important. Meals, cleaning, organizing, driving . . . Oh yes, and caring for their hearts. But there are times when we have to let go of good things, in order to get best things done. We might have scrambled eggs for dinner because I spent the afternoon helping two sisters learn to love each other. No need to be hard on myself – I’ve chosen the better part.Seasons of Life.
Much frustration can come from bucking up against this reality of life. A new baby puts us in survival mode. Sleep, food, and basic hygiene is often all that can be achieved in such a season. Sickness can be a similar experience. A loss or a move can set us back for months. But if this is what The Lord has brought into our lives? Then this is what He intends for us.And so . . . .
Soften Your Heart.
To the lessons the Lord has for you and your family. Don’t merely try to “get through it”, but desire all that He wants to do through your circumstances and trials. Then you’ll grow – and your children will grow right along with you. Much is gained, even if little is accomplished.Stop Sighing.
It’s so easy to slip into the unconscious habit of sighing. A small set-back. Sigh. More work to be done. Sigh. So much training left to do. Sigh. Not only does this defeat your spirit, but that quiet sigh communicates your discontent to your children far too loudly.Instead . . . .
Savor the Sweetness.
Of this precious time. Look for and enjoy the bright moments. Laugh at the funny antics of your children. Listen to their creative ideas. Kiss their darling cheeks and help them see God in the small things. Pour His love into their lives while you have the chance.Let’s set our sight on this high calling.
It’s when we get to looking down at all the sticky spots and work left undone that we get discouraged. So let’s keep looking up. Looking up to the God who gave us this beautiful gift called motherhood.Yes, we are truly blessed with a high calling.
Women with a mission.
Beautiful thank you for sharing, Breanna!
ReplyDeleteYou are so welcome! I'm glad you were blessed by it. :-) Hope you and your precious family are all doing well! :-)
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